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An Ohio youth prison drug smuggling scandal could mean big trouble for the facility’s former manager. In addition to allegations of smuggling drugs and other contraband into the facility, the Circleville woman is also facing charges for engaging in inappropriate relationships with incarcerated teens under her care.
During her time as deputy superintendent at the Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility (JCF) in Stark County, 39-year-old Renee Depalo of Massillon allegedly began an affair with at least one of the inmates, an adolescent named James Wilson.
Following an investigation by the Ohio Department of Youth Services (DYS), Depalo resigned from her position on May 17, 2024 after allegations of smuggling drugs and other contraband into the facility came to light.
She also agreed to have her counselor’s license suspended for two years. Yet the DYS found that Depalo and Wilson continued their relationship even after the resignation, including sharing illicit phone calls.
In the fall of 2024, officials monitoring calls at the Circleville Juvenile Correctional Facility heard Depalo make plans to get drugs and prohibited technology thrown over the prison fence. The officials worked with DYS, on-site troopers, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s aviation unit to thwart the plan.
On November 8, 2024, they caught Korrell Bush, now 21, trying to deliver the package, which contained 15 THC vape pens, various phone cables, cell phones, and a cell phone battery.
Depalo’s trial begins June 16. She’s pleaded not guilty to attempting to convey contraband into a state prison. If convicted, she faces a third-degree felony charge. Bush’s trial begins September 18. He’s also pleading not guilty to charges that include illegal conveyance and receiving stolen property.
